This creamy Boursin cheese rigatoni is a pasta lover’s dream! It’s simple, cheesy, and has a rich flavor that makes dinner feel special without too much effort.
Honestly, who can resist pasta smothered in cheesy goodness? I like to add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for a pop of color. Makes it look fancy—just don’t tell anyone it was easy! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rigatoni Pasta: Rigatoni is great for holding onto that creamy sauce. If you’re out of rigatoni, penne or fusilli work well too! They also trap the sauce nicely.
Boursin Cheese: This garlic and herb cheese is the star! If you can’t find it, you can use cream cheese mixed with garlic and herbs. It won’t be exact, but it will still be delicious!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half or coconut milk. Keep in mind that this will change the flavor a bit, but it’s a good way to reduce calories.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition. You could swap in kale or arugula, but make sure to adjust cooking time since they may wilt differently!
How Do You Make Sure The Pasta is Perfectly Al Dente?
Perfect pasta means perfect texture. To achieve al dente pasta, cook it until it has a firm bite (about a minute less than the package suggests). Don’t forget to taste it before draining!
- Check the pasta a minute before time is up. It should be tender but still firm in the center.
- When draining, do not rinse the pasta. This helps the sauce stick better!
How Can You Get the Creamy Sauce Just Right?
Getting the sauce consistent is crucial for this dish. Start by adding the cream slowly and warming it gently before adding the Boursin cheese. This helps it melt smoothly.
- If your sauce feels thick, add that reserved pasta water a little at a time. This way, you control the creaminess without making it watery.
- Stir frequently over medium-low heat. This prevents the sauce from scorching and ensures a silky finish!
Boursin Cheese Rigatoni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Base:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
Cheese and Greens:
- 1 package (about 5.2 oz) Boursin cheese (garlic & herb flavor)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
Seasoning and Garnish:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, thinly sliced for garnish
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 20 minutes in total! You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the pasta, while the rest of the time will be spent making that creamy, cheesy sauce and combining everything together. Quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the rigatoni and cook according to the package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until you reach that lovely al dente texture. Don’t forget to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta into a colander!
2. Sauté Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until it’s fragrant but hasn’t turned brown. We want that lovely garlic aroma without any bitterness!
3. Make the Cream Sauce:
Next, reduce the heat and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir it around gently and let it warm for 2-3 minutes. We’re creating a cozy base for our cheesy goodness!
4. Introduce the Boursin:
Now, add the Boursin cheese to the skillet and stir well. You’ll want it to melt and blend smoothly with the cream—this is the heart of your creamy sauce!
5. Build the Flavors:
Once the cheese has melted, mix in the grated Parmesan and teaspoon of smoked paprika. Keep stirring until everything is well blended and creamy! Give it a taste and season with salt and pepper as desired.
6. Add Spinach:
Time to add in the chopped spinach! Fold it into the sauce and let it cook just until wilted, about 1-2 minutes. If the sauce seems a bit thick, pour in some of that reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach a smooth and silky consistency.
7. Combine Everything:
Toss the drained rigatoni into the skillet with the creamy sauce, and give it a good mix to ensure every piece of pasta is generously coated. Yum!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, transfer the creamy pasta to serving bowls. Sprinkle a bit of extra smoked paprika and freshly sliced basil or parsley for that nice touch. If you like a little heat, serve with red pepper flakes on the side. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is perfect for this dish, you can substitute it with penne, fusilli, or even bowtie pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No problem! You can use half-and-half or even whole milk as a lighter option. Keep in mind that using milk may result in a less creamy sauce, so consider adding a bit more Boursin cheese for extra flavor.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly! To keep it that way, just ensure that the Parmesan cheese you use is made without animal rennet, as some cheeses may not be suitable for vegetarians.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy texture. Stir often to prevent sticking!
